This year’s Independence Day is especially important, as America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the year, and in particular this summer, you’ll likely see recognition of America250 — the “nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in commemorating the 250th anniversary of our country,” according to the group’s website. To honor this historic milestone, Successful Farming magazine took a look at how American agriculture has evolved over 250 years. The modernizations and improvements in farming are integral parts of what led to this nation’s rise to be one of the most powerful countries in the world.
LIFE magazine debuted Nov. 23, 1936, as the first dedicated photography magazine in the United States. Since then, the publication has been known for stunning photographs depicting all aspects of life. These images are from that collection. For more LIFE in agriculture photos, go to life.com.
These photos gives us a glimpse into the agriculture of our forefathers. We can better envision what agriculture, farming, and farm life was like in the Mid-19th Century.
Farmer riding a horse drawn two-row planter in a large open field.
This photo was titled by the photographer: Texas Essay…